REI Roadtripper Evaluation | CleverHiker

Backside Line

For these in search of a easy, inexpensive, no-nonsense duffel bag for lugging tons of drugs in a single journey, the REI Roadtripper is a strong possibility. It’s tolerably sturdy, tremendous spacious, and is the lightest possibility on this record, making it a superb alternative for these journeys if you may want an additional bag for the journey dwelling or simply must lug a bunch of unwieldy gear to the automobile, campsite, or gear shed. 

And haul gear it will probably, regardless of which of the a number of sizes out there you choose to get. We match all we would have liked for a weekend tenting journey inside and nonetheless had loads of room to spare. The entire bag packs into an impressively small storage pouch when not in use. It is probably not as climate resistant or sturdy as different luggage on this record, but when all you want is a reasonable, compact bag to hold gear or items, this can do the trick properly.

Carry Consolation

In the case of carrying choices, this duffel solely affords two: an over-the-shoulder strap and high seize handles. Neither are padded, in order that they weren’t probably the most snug when the bag was absolutely loaded, and we needed to carry it for various yards. They have been nonetheless greater than practical and the seize handles by no means received in the way in which when packing. There may be additionally a sturdy seize deal with at every finish.

The shoulder strap is detachable and repositionable by way of webbing loops and sturdy plastic toggles so you possibly can customise it based mostly on which shoulder you like to hold it over or for those who’d slightly put on it throughout your physique. The bag itself is tender and pliable so it simply conforms to your physique. This was useful when it was full of soppy items like sleeping luggage however much less so when full of exhausting items like tents and trekking poles.

Compressibility & Packability

Whereas this duffel could also be spacious, it’s not straightforward to pack. There’s no construction in any respect within the partitions or base, so cloth tended to only flop downward once we tried to stash tenting gear inside. Thankfully, the good lengthy zipper helped with that by advantage of providing a gaping mouth into which you’ll load issues shortly. There are not any compression straps or different bells and whistles inside the primary compartment, although, so pack correctly.

In the case of storing this bag between makes use of, no different duffel we examined beats the REI Roadtripper for a way gentle and small it packs down. Meaning for journeys the place you’re anxious you’ll be touring dwelling with greater than you left with–say, to go to household for holidays or to buy groceries after an expedition in Argentina–it’s straightforward to pack into your baggage and unfurl if you want it.

Sturdiness

Sadly, this bag was the least sturdy of all of the duffels we examined. That doesn’t imply it received’t stand as much as some abuse, although. Actually, once we dragged the bag absolutely loaded across the campground a number of occasions, all it picked up have been a number of scuffs and a little bit of free filth. What’s extra, the straps appear sturdy and the attachment factors and webbing lash loops appear safe. The zipper isn’t as burly and strong as we would have favored, nevertheless it’s seemingly extra sturdy than most waterproof zippers.

We felt good about loading it with cumbersome gear that doesn’t match effectively in additional compact duffels however have been reluctant to shove in pointed objects like trekking poles that might doubtlessly puncture the comparatively thinner materials. There isn’t a padding within the partitions or base, both, which means it’s practical however not fairly as protecting of its contents as different luggage.

Climate Resistance

As a budget-friendly duffel, the Roadtripper will definitely include all of the gear you want, nevertheless it received’t maintain it dry. The supplies and zippers will not be waterproof, so once we left the bag within the rain for an hour, it was near soaked by means of in most locations. Actually, once we put paper inside to see simply how moist the inside received, it was utterly sodden. So for those who assume you could be exposing your bag to any inclement climate, you shouldn’t anticipate a lot from this duffel.

Group

Because the accessible value level may recommend, there are only a few bells and whistles constructed into this duffel bag. Actually, there is just one small exterior zipper pocket. Aside from that, it’s only one large compartment. This makes for a easy and simple bag, however not one well-suited to group. We discovered if we needed to maintain issues separate or discover small objects quicker, packing cubes used contained in the bag have been the way in which to go.

That stated, for those who require a spot to stash further giant and ponderous objects, small pockets and dividers might solely detract from a bag’s attractiveness. So, for these extra serious about hauling helmets, snowshoes, puffer jackets, or the like, this bag is for you.

Ought to You Purchase the REI Roadtripper?

There’s no denying that this duffel bag is a steal. It’s a budget-friendly possibility certain to enchantment to anybody who wants a bag to include all kinds of vital clothes or gear. It additionally works effectively for individuals who prefer to journey with a further packable duffel for a bit of additional storage and peace of thoughts on journeys which will contain returning with greater than you left with. Certainly, the worth it affords is stellar.

However that doesn’t imply you must anticipate it to carry out or stand as much as the identical abuse as dearer duffel luggage. Actually, the vacationers who will get probably the most use out of this duffel aren’t those planning to hold their luggage regularly or far, however those that often want a bag to include their mountaineering gear, cart cumbersome objects from the automobile to the campsite, or stash cumbersome objects.

What Different Duffel Baggage Ought to You Take into account?

In case you’re unsure the REI Roadtripper is best for you in any of the out there sizes, you could need to take into account one of many different stand-out duffels we’ve examined.

The North Face Base Camp Gear Field Evaluation: In search of extra of a gear hauler than a standard duffel? Try The North Face Base Camp Gear Field. It is available in a number of sizes and affords a superb strategy to retailer gear at busy base camps or at the back of a automobile. It folds flat when empty and stacks simply when full.

Nemo Double Haul Convertible Duffel and Tote Evaluation: In case you like the thought of hauling a number of gear however would like a bag that’s simpler to pack, extra sturdy, and affords a number of extra carry choices, try the Nemo Double Haul.

The North Face Rolling Thunder Evaluation: In case you want extra capability, try The North Face Rolling Thunder Wheeled Duffel 28”, a monster duffel assured to suit all of your gear. It affords much more house and is outfitted with sturdy sides and wheels to make heavy hundreds extra manageable.